Inspired To Serve Others
She wanted to become an astronaut, but found her calling in service to others. Today Jeanette Oliveros is helping lead Texas Health’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts.
Recently named director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and People and Culture Transformation, she is achieving her cherished goal of leaving the world a better place than she found it.
Oliveros is passionate about transformation and meaningful change at Texas Health, drawing on a 20-year career at the organization as she works with top leaders and more than 80 Human Resources employees who volunteered to help with the People and Culture initiatives.
“Jeanette is a perfect fit for this massive job,” said Carla Dawson, chief people officer. “She brings a strong ability to refine ideas and long experience at Texas Health to the table.”
Read on to see how Oliveros’ faith informs her days and her career path.
What did you want to be as a kid, and how did you ultimately choose your career?
I was always good in math and science and was intrigued by space, so I wanted to be an astronaut and become a role model for other girls. But I attended North Side High School in Fort Worth, a magnet school for medical professions. I developed an interest in becoming a nurse but learned that I faint at the sight of blood.
I was among the first high school students to attend college during my senior year through Texas Wesleyan University. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in international business. I also became a volunteer at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth. I loved the culture so much I applied for a receptionist position at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford. By the grace of God, my resume was sent to the corporate office, where I was hired as a receptionist in Human Resources.
What does a typical workday look like?
My day starts around 5 a.m. with a prayer and a cup of coffee. Then I prepare breakfast for my kids and take a walk with my blue heeler, Nova. I live in the country in Paradise, Texas, so the fresh air and scenery help me mentally prepare for the day. I usually start work at 7:30 a.m., responding to emails, attending meetings and collaborating.
What’s your favorite part of your job and what is the biggest challenge?
Serving others and working on transformational and meaningful change is my favorite part. I believe God has molded my path. In my new role, I will continue to serve and learn from others, working closely with my teams on strategic initiatives to drive equity and inclusion across our organization and in our communities.
The biggest challenge is that while Texas Health is a great place to work, there is so much more we can do. Our commitment to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion in all we do is uncompromising.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I enjoy reading Spanish literature. Isabel Allende and Gabriel Garcia Marquez are among my favorite authors. I also have an interest in learning other languages, so I took classes in Italian and am developing a fascination for Turkish.
Texas Health’s Vision is earning the trust of consumers for a lifetime of health and well-being. How will the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plans contribute?
Our greatest strength will always be our care teams. We know that consumer satisfaction is largely influenced by the value of our services.
To support our care teams in delivering a differentiated consumer experience, we must create an environment where they can do their best work here. Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plans include two powerful strategic goals: diversity in talent and creating an inclusive work environment.
Teams are working on projects to create an inclusive work environment where employees can build meaningful, inspiring careers serving others, leaving the world a better place.
